Is it safe to travel to China in 2023?
The tips about how to have a safe trip in China ranging from the health issue to the security environment.
Is it safe to travel to China in 2023?
With the easing of China's strict COVID policy, the country is about to open its doors to the world once again. There is no doubt that China is a compelling destination, and tourists are certainly eagerly awaiting a visit to its breathtaking landscapes and fascinating ancient sites. Meanwhile, business travelers will be able to continue offering their rich variety of goods to this vibrant market.
While there has been no official announcement about when China will re-open for travel, there is some indication it will happen by next year. For example, the fact that QR health codes are no longer required for domestic travel, and certain strict entry requirements have been eased. While the borders are still currently closed to visitors, there is speculation that the travel ban might be lifted during the first or second quarter of 2023. (updated on December 26, 2022, International travelers arriving in China will not be requested to take centralized quarantine since January 8th, 2023, and the onsite PCR testing for all inbound travelers will be canceled)
Along with the easing of restrictions since the beginning of December, the country received its first high level wave of infections. It is estimated that within only two weeks, up to 50-60% of the population has been hit by this fast spreading infection. Most of the cases were caused by Omicron variant BA.5.2 and BF.7, which is characterised by its ability to transmit easily, and yet many people experience less severe of illness compared to previous variant generations.
You might be asking, Is it safe to travel to China in this post-pandemic era? While the immediate future is still uncertain, there is some helpful information that can help you prepare for the day China re-opens.
Here are some tips to keeping safe during this time:
1. Continue wearing masks in public places, especially when in high density areas with large crowds.
2. Frequent hand washing remains essential, especially before touching your eyes or nose. It's recommended to carry hand sanitiser or alcohol with you when going out in case no hand washing area is available.
3. Keep your room well ventilated.
4. Continue to practice social distancing. If you must meet with friends or clients, try to do so at an outdoor location. If that is not possible, make sure to wear a mask.
5. In addition, remember to carry along with you some cold, flu and fever medication. It will help you easily ease your symptoms if you do happen to become infected.
Well, besides the health issue, how are about the security environment of Shanghai? What should you know to avoid getting ripped off?
As far as big cities go, Shanghai's violent crime rate is remarkably low. And what little there is of it is seldom directed at foreigners. But acts of petty larceny like pick pocketing and various scams are a different story. To protect yourself from the former, just take the same precautions you would in any densely populated area. Keep your eyes open and your valuables in your front pockets. Here are a few ways to protect yourself from the latter.
Areas with a lot of tourist traffic, like People's Park, Nanjing Dong Road and The Bund attract a lot of clever, enterprising folks who are all too willing to help you part with your hard-earned cash, so be vigilant. The most common and easily identifiable scam is the "tea tasting." It works like this: a couple of charming, friendly "university students" who speak good English will start to chat you up. Eventually, they invite you to join them for a tasting at a "traditional Chinese tea house" nearby. The pitch can also come in the form of "art students" selling their works. Either way, it's the same scam. These are touts. They're job is to appeal to your curiosity about China and desire to interface with the locals. Ultimately, you end up overpaying for low quality products. If you find yourself in this situation, simply politely decline their invitations. They'll eventually take the hint and move on.
As Shanghai's retail market develops, haggling for prices has become less and less of a necessity. But it's still a valuable skill in Shanghai's many knock-off markets. If you look like a foreigner, you're an easy mark for an exorbitant price. Never accept the first offer. Instead, cut it by at least 80 percent with the intent of reaching an agreement closer to 50 or 65 percent. If they refuse, just walk away; there will always be another stall selling the same stuff.
If you're taking a taxi, don't get into a car that isn't plainly marked as such. Most of the city's reputable taxi companies use Volkswagens in their fleets. Kias and other makes are usually driven by smaller, independent operators who have been known to rig their meters and overcharge. Obviously, never take a taxi if the driver refuses to use his meter. With other non-metered forms of transit, like motorcycle taxis and auto-rickshaws, always agree on the price before agreeing to the service.
Shanghai is home to a lot of people who have slipped through the cracks of the Chinese dream. You're bound to encounter panhandlers, but understand that panhandling is an industry here. The vast majority of these people are working a territory. They take a small cut of your generosity and send the rest up the pecking order. Most of your money ends up in the hands of someone who doesn't really need it. By giving money, you're ultimately helping to perpetuate a fraudulent business model. Nevertheless, panhandlers still have a tough lot in life. If you're compelled to help them out, considering offering them something they can use, like food. Most of the time, they'll graciously accept it.
Finally, do not avail yourself of the "lady bar" and "massage" services offered by the shady touts who congregate outside your hotel's entrance. And if you find yourself in a bar filled with women falling over themselves for the pleasure of your company, don't kid yourself. You're not that irresistible.
Stay safe and stay updated to find out the latest information about travel to China! The more we can all take care of ourselves and each other, the sooner we can at last continue to enjoy the marvels of this ancient country of wonder and possibility.
